Have you ever been ready to drive somewhere, only to turn the key and hear that dreaded “click-click-click” of a dead battery?
While the average lifespan of a car battery is 3-5 years, many vehicle owners don’t regularly care for their batteries, leading to premature charge issues that can leave them stranded.
Beyond changing your battery at the recommended intervals (typically every four years), there are several things you can do to extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s battery. Here are 8 battery maintenance tips to keep your battery working as long as possible.
Tip #1: Test the battery often
Regularly testing a battery’s voltage is one of the most important things you can do to be sure the battery doesn’t die before its time or leave you stranded somewhere. Either go to a mechanic or use an at-home device called a voltmeter to take the reading. An average fully-charged reading will be between 12.4 and 12.8.
If you test your battery using a voltmeter, be sure to connect the positive to positive and negative to negative, like you would do when jumping a car. The most accurate reading will be at least 12 hours after the engine has been turned off.
Additionally, at least once a month it’s advisable to conduct a battery load test. This test will ensure that your battery can charge properly, even in freezing temperatures. This test can be easily done by a mechanic.
Tip #2: Use your car often
Cars perform best when they’re used regularly. In fact, leaving your car unused for long periods of time can negatively impact its performance. Also, if possible, limit short distance drives, as starting and stopping, especially in the cold, is hard on the battery and engine. Driving your car frequently and for extended periods of time will give the battery time to fully charge.
If your schedule doesn’t give you much flexibility for longer drives or if you know your car isn’t going to be used for a long period of time, you might consider investing in a portable battery charger. Just be sure not to overcharge your battery.
Tip #3: Clean your battery regularly
Not cleaning your battery is a quick path to poor performance, short circuiting and, eventually, a shortened lifespan. It’s easy to remove the surface level grime and dampness that causes these problems with a sponge or brush and a dry cloth.
First, you’ll remove the clamps and wipe away the grease, dirt and oxidation with a baking soda and water mixture and a sponge or toothbrush. Use the dry rag to wipe it down, thoroughly drying off the mixture and ensuring there’s no residue left.
When you’re cleaning your battery, also be sure to check out your battery terminals. If they look like they’re dirty, bring your car to a mechanic to clean them.
Tip #4: Turn off your electronics
One of the most common causes of a dead battery is leaving on electronic accessories. When your car engine isn’t running, be sure all electronics are off. This includes turning off the radio, headlights and interior lights and unplugging appliances, like car chargers.
Minimizing how long you use the radio and AC while idling can also help extend battery life. And, although it might sound odd, don’t forget to lock your car! This is important for both security and because, if left unlocked, your car’s computer system may continue running.
Tip #5: Secure your battery
Be sure your battery is sitting correctly and that it is securely mounted. A loose battery can spill battery acid over your engine or vibrate and cause loose wiring and a disconnect. Keeping your battery fastened properly helps prevent all sorts of potential battery issues.
Tip #6: Be mindful of temperatures
Weather – both extreme hot and extreme cold – is a big factor in the longevity of your car battery. For hot summer days, keep your car parked in a shady place. In winter, consider installing an insulation blanket, or investing in an engine heater. Your battery will thank you with more reliable performance!
Tip #7: Check your acid level
Have your mechanic check your battery’s acid level every six months to prevent acid stratification. This happens when batteries dwell on a charge below 80%, causing the electrolytes to concentrate on the bottom of the battery and leave the top sparse. Your battery is particularly at risk for stratification if your car is primarily driven for short distances with power-robbing accessories in use.
You or your mechanic can add distilled water to your battery if the electrolytes are low. If they are low, the battery plates will be exposed – top them off with the water, but be sure to only fill enough to cover the plates. Then use a battery charger to recharge the battery.
Tip #8: Care for your whole car
Battery care is about more than the battery. All components of your car interact with each other to make the entire machine work smoothly. For instance, if the alternator goes bad, the battery will quickly follow suit. So, be sure to get your car serviced on a regular basis and take it into the shop immediately if you suspect an issue.
Warning signs of a battery-related breakdown include:
- Grinding or clicking when you turn the ignition
- Vehicle cranks slowly when attempting to start
- Headlights dim when idling but brighten when you rev your engine
- Your battery is more than three years old
METRO Is Here for Your Car Care Needs
Whether you’re an at-home handyman on top of your car care or just learning the basics of car maintenance, METRO is here to help you with your car’s maintenance needs. Our team of experienced technicians are trained to diagnose precisely what you need, when you need it, for your battery and beyond.
Visit our website or call today to learn more about METRO or to schedule your next appointment.
